CHANGTHANG WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the state of Jammu & Kashmir between the
Tibet (China) and Ladakh border. The famous Indus River flows through the middle of the
sanctuary.
Notification: Wildlife Sanctuary: 1987
Flora
Primarily natural grasslands and about 200 rare and endangered plant species thrive here.
Fauna
Flagship species: Kiang (a species of Tibetan Wild Ass) and snow leopard.
Other species: Tibetan argali, Tibetan wolf, lynx, Tibetan gazelle, Ibex, Wild yak, Tibetan
antelopes, Blue Sheep, Ladakh Urial, etc.
Avian Fauna
Flagship species: Black Necked Crane
Other species: Brown-headed Gulls, Brahminy Ducks, bar-headed geese and numerous species
of seasonal migratory birds.
Getting There
Udhampur rail station is the nearest railhead and Leh Airport is the closest airport to
Changthang sanctuary. By road it can be approached from Srinagar-Leh route (west) and
Manali-Leh (south).
Tourist Information
Tented accommodation provided by the Leh tour operators can be availed by the visitors. Some
staying options are available in Krozok. Tourists can alternatively stay in hotels, resorts or guest
houses in Leh and its surrounding areas.
Prior entry permit has to be secured from the District Magistrate, Leh for entering Changthang
Wildlife Sanctuary. The surrounding areas of the sanctuary are infested with militant
activities. Hence, tourists are advised to stay within the designated path and not venture into
unknown areas.
Tsomoriri Lake (believed to be one of the highest lakes in the world) and Pangong Tso Lake,
situated in the proximate of Changthang sanctuary, are must-see tourist spots.
Additional Information
Location: Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Leh District, Jammu and Kashmir
Area: around 4,000 sq km; Temperature: -5°C to 35°C
Altitude: approximately between 14,000 and 19,000 feet above sea level
Best visiting time: May to December
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